Goa is one of the most popular holiday destination for tourists/travellers across the world. Winters are preferred to visit Goa, but Monsoons is another great time to visit this beautiful place with varied landscapes and culture. Here we would try to share some tips about planning a trip to Goa, timings, places to stay, how to explore and what to do etc.
The very first step is deciding on time. Winters are best but can be costly affair, plus there would be limited options to stay and Goa would be over crowded during this time. At the same time, Goa is most beautiful in winters and has max to offer for tourists.
We believe in visiting the places at reasonable cost without compromising much on exploration aspect. And we prefer visiting Goa in Monsoons because of following reasons - beaches are relatively clean & less crowded, weather is awesome (even if it rains, it drizzles), great places to stay at reasonable price (almost half) and lot more.
When you have decided on time to visit Goa, next step is to find a good place to stay. Although, place to stay is not very important when you are Goa. I mean, most of the times you end up spending time outside
Goa often conjures up images of endless beaches, palm-fringed landscapes, and parties that last until dawn. But India’s smallest state has so much more to offer than just its coastline. From heritage walks in colonial quarters to spice plantations tucked away in lush countryside, from vibrant flea markets to serene backwaters, Goa is a destination that can be experienced in many layers.
If you’re planning your trip and wondering what all to include, here’s a detailed guide to the best things to do and the main places to explore in Goa.
1. Explore the Beaches of Goa
Goa’s beaches are diverse — some buzzing with energy and nightlife, others calm and tucked away.
North Goa Beaches – Perfect for travelers seeking vibrance. Popular ones include Baga, Calangute, Candolim, and Anjuna. These beaches are lined with shacks serving seafood, water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana rides, and late-night parties.
South Goa Beaches – More serene and less crowded. Palolem, Agonda, Colva, and Benaulim offer pristine stretches of sand, yoga retreats, and quiet sunsets.
Hidden Beaches – For offbeat travelers, places like Butterfly Beach, Kakolem Beach (Tiger Beach), and Cola Beach give you a slice of Goa’s wild beauty away from the crowds.
👉 Travel Tip: Sunrise and early morning walks on Goan beaches are magical — fewer people, fishermen hauling nets, and soft golden light perfect for photography.
2. Visit the Latin Quarter – Fontainhas in Panjim
This UNESCO-recognized heritage area is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Goa. Fontainhas, also known as the Latin Quarter, features brightly colored Portuguese-era houses, tiled roofs, and quaint cafés. Walking here feels like stepping into a different time.
Look out for Azulejos (Portuguese tiles) on walls.
Visit art galleries like Gitanjali Gallery.
Stop for coffee or Goan snacks at tucked-away cafés.
3. Discover Goa’s Churches and Temples
Goa’s rich cultural heritage comes alive in its religious architecture.
Basilica of Bom Jesus (Old Goa) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
Se Cathedral (Old Goa) РAmong the largest churches in Asia with an impressive Portuguese-Gothic fa̤ade.
Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception (Panjim) – Iconic white church with a grand staircase.
Shanta Durga Temple (Ponda) – A beautiful example of Konkani Hindu temple architecture.
Mangeshi Temple (Priol) – Dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a seven-story deepastambha (lamp tower).
4. Walk Through Old Goa
Once the capital of Portuguese India, Old Goa is dotted with grand churches, convents, and colonial ruins. It is a history lover’s paradise. A half-day visit can take you through:
Basilica of Bom Jesus
Se Cathedral
Church of St. Francis of Assisi
Archaeological Museum
The architecture, peaceful surroundings, and historical significance make Old Goa a must-visit.
5. Experience Goa’s Markets
Markets in Goa are more than shopping hubs; they are cultural experiences.
Anjuna Flea Market (Wednesdays) – Clothes, handicrafts, jewelry, and live music.
Mapusa Market (Fridays) – Fresh produce, spices, local sweets, and traditional Goan ingredients.
Arpora Saturday Night Market – Food stalls, live bands, and a global, festive atmosphere.
Panjim Municipal Market – Great for buying cashews, spices, and everyday local essentials.
6. Indulge in Water Sports & Adventure
For thrill-seekers, Goa offers plenty:
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling – Grande Island and Malvan are popular spots.
Parasailing & Jet Skiing – Available at Baga, Calangute, and Candolim.
Kayaking – Paddle through backwaters and mangroves in Sal or Nerul rivers.
Trekking – Trails to Dudhsagar Waterfalls or along Western Ghats ridges.
7. Take a Spice Plantation Tour
The region around Ponda is famous for spice plantations. Walking through lush estates of cardamom, pepper, nutmeg, and vanilla gives a peek into Goa’s agrarian roots. Many plantations also offer traditional Goan meals served on banana leaves.
8. Chase Waterfalls
Beyond the beaches, Goa has some spectacular waterfalls:
Dudhsagar Falls – A four-tiered waterfall on the Goa-Karnataka border, spectacular during monsoons.
Tambdi Surla Waterfall – Near the Mahadev Temple, tucked inside dense forest.
Netravali & Kesarval Waterfalls – Quieter and less crowded options.
9. Experience Goan Food
Food in Goa is a mix of Konkani, Portuguese, and coastal flavors. Must-tries include:
Seafood curries – Prawn balchao, crab xec xec, and rava-fried fish.
Traditional dishes – Vindaloo, sorpotel, and xacuti.
Bebinca – A layered Goan dessert.
Feni – A local cashew liquor unique to Goa.
Street food lovers should not miss ros omelette, choris pav, and cutlet pão.
10. Explore Goa’s Backwaters and Islands
Divar Island – Accessible via ferry, known for its rustic charm and old Portuguese homes.
Chorao Island – Famous for Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
Mandovi & Zuari Backwaters – Great for boat cruises, birdwatching, and photography.
11. Attend a Festival or Carnival
Goa is known for its lively festivals:
Goa Carnival (February/March) – Street parades, costumes, music, and dance.
Shigmo Festival – A traditional spring festival with folk performances.
Sao Joao Festival (June) – Celebrated by jumping into wells and rivers, symbolic of fertility and rains.
Christmas & New Year – Goa is one of the best places in India to experience the festive season.
12. Enjoy Goa’s Nightlife
Beach clubs at Baga and Anjuna.
Silent Noise Parties at Palolem.
Casinos on the Mandovi River like Deltin Royale.
Local taverns where you can enjoy feni and live music.
13. Visit Goa’s Forts
Goa’s forts are scenic and historic:
Aguada Fort – Offers views of the Arabian Sea, plus a 17th-century lighthouse.
Chapora Fort – Famous for its sunset views and “Dil Chahta Hai” connection.
Cabo de Rama Fort – A more remote fort with rugged beauty.
14. Explore Wildlife Sanctuaries
For nature lovers:
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary – Near Dudhsagar Falls, home to leopards and deer.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary – Known for tall trees and birdlife.
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary – On Chorao Island, a paradise for birdwatchers.
Goa is a place that rewards both first-time visitors and repeat travelers. Whether you’re chasing sunsets at the beach, wandering through colonial neighborhoods, hiking in the Western Ghats, or indulging in seafood by a riverside café, there’s always something new to discover.
The charm of Goa lies in its contrasts — vibrant yet laidback, historical yet modern, spiritual yet playful. Take it slow, soak it in, and let Goa’s unique rhythm guide your journey.
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